Month: October 2014

The first ever Maldives culinary competition was held recently from 8th to 10th September at the Dharubaaruge Exhibition Hall Maldives in line with the Hotel Asia Exhibition. Over 300 participants from various resorts took part in this competition. The culinary challenge was quite a change from the ordinary competitions as each participant had to transport their delicacies by boat to the mainland. The event was organized by Dhivehi Expo Services in association with CDC Events and Travels Sri Lanka, Maldives Ministry of Tourism.

Young chefs and apprentices had the opportunity to showcase their talents in 40 different categories such as creative bread display, chocolate showpieces, cakes and creative coffee. Competitors ranging from mid level chefs to apprentices presented their best to win accolades and medals. The exhibition centre is famous for hosting such events that promote tourism industry of Maldives. If you are a traveller interested in attending such culinary competitions you could visit the island next year and consider staying at a renowned Maldives hotels such asAnantara Kihavah Maldives Villas that provide luxury accommodation.

Snorkelling in Parrot Cay and Cocoa Island

Equally breathtaking and both equally having a right to be known as a tropical paradise, Parrot Cay in Turks and Caicos and Cocoa Island in Maldives also provide plenty of opportunities for snorkelers to explore the rich marine diversity that lies beneath the waves. An idea option for travellers would be to combine such water sport activities with some holiday rejuvenation offered at health and wellness retreats such as COMO Shambhala. These retreats which are located in Parrot Cay and Cocoa Island also offer you the chance to go snorkelling and discover vibrant underwater life be it coral or fish.

Parrot Cay features shallow reefs, letting snorkelers get up close to view a vast array of marine species. The waters around such locales as Sanddollar Island and Iguana Island are full of life and provide one with countless hours of exploration that can be enjoyed by those of all ages. As you snorkel to your heart’s content in the waters surrounding Parrot Cay and Turks and Caicos in general, keep a look out for species such as hawksbill turtles, parrot fish and groupers. Keep an eye open for playful bottlenose dolphins which are also found swimming here.

Those planning snorkelling excursions around Cocoa Island also have much to witness be it in the day or on a unique night snorkel expedition. The clear waters that surround the Maldives provide ideal views of the colourful coral and diverse marine life that call it home including angelfish, parrotfish, clownfish and butterflyfish to name just a few.

Uditha Dharmawardhane is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Roland Lefevre. He specializes in creating features on leisure as well as business travel destinations across the globe.

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Kayaking in Kalu Ganga

Known for its breathtaking natural beauty, Sri Lanka offers the perfect getaway in which to enjoy the great outdoors. Since the island has many swamps, rivers, lakes, lagoons and even canals, it is the perfect destination in which to engage in some water based adventure. In Sri Lanka, kayaking provides the ideal way in which to explore these majestic sites. One such place intrepid travellers can try some exciting kayaking would be the Kalu Ganga in Kalutara which can be reached while on an enriching tour organised by Sri Lanka Holiday Travel.

The Kalu Ganga is a river that can be found in the Southern coastal town of Kalutara and provides an idyllic backdrop from which to see the sights of this enchanting town by the sea. This calm river is well suited for kayaking for even novices and takes one a captivating journey past landscapes rich in nature and tranquillity. Those traversing the waters of the Kalu Ganga can also look forward to seeing a variety of bird species as well in their natural habitats. On your travels you will also pass jungles, rubber estates, paddy fields and not forgetting the impressive Gangatilaka Vihara also known as the Kalutara Temple.

Once having explored this river, you can also choose to continue your kayaking excursions at other sites around the island. From the thrilling rapids to excursions at sea, this water sport certainly gives one a chance to soak up the unique natural beauty Sri Lanka is well known for.

Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.

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Safari with John Keells Excursions

Where human adventure meeting with the beast of the wild becomes reality

Those who love nature, adventure and outdoor excitement can find a wide array of Sri Lanka adventure tours around the country sponsored and provided by the John Keells Group in liaison with their tour consultants Walkers Tours. Sri Lanka, a small island blessed with diverse climates with thick rain forests, vegetation, flora and fauna and dry land including deserts is ideal for breeding and living for a vast number of animals, reptiles, birds and fish especially rare and endangered species. The island is the breeding home for rare and endangered species such as the marvelous Whales including the Blue whales, Dolphins and Turtles besides being the bane for beautiful giant Elephants including tuskers, Leopards and reptiles and some of the migrant endangered species of birds.

Some of the famous wild life national parks found spread across the island for Safari holidays which are administered by the Department of Wildlife Conservation are Wilapattu, Wasgumuwa, Flood Plains and Somawathiya, Minneriya, Kaudulla and Angammedilla in the North Central Province, Yala, Bundala, Lunugamvehera and Hikkaduwa in the Southern Province, Gal Oya, Kumana, Lahugala Kitulana, Maduru Oya and Pigeon Island in the Eastern Province, Udawalawe in the Sabaragumuwa Province, Horton Plains and Galway’s Land in the Central Province, Horagolla in the Western Province and Mullativu in the Northern Province. Among these Wilpattu stands out as the largest and one of the oldest national parks in Sri Lanka besides being listed as one of the world renowned top national parks for its uncounted Leopard population while Yala comes next as the second largest and the most visited national park in the Island.

Inbound travelers have the option of pre-arranging their Safari tour excursions prior to their visit to the country or during their stay. The expeditions provide Safari jeep tours with experienced drivers for half day and full day safaris. Some of the facilities you may expect as part of the Safari excursion packages are free hotel pickups and drops based on each individual national park, three to four hours of game drive, inclusive of Jeep fees, park entrance fees and all taxes.

Chandrishan Williams is a travel writer who writes under the pen name, Caleb Falcon. He specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers.

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Surf Life Saving Queensland (SLSQ)

Surf Life Saving Queensland was established on a fundamental principle – to save lives! Affiliated with Surf Life Saving Australia (SLSA) and International Life Saving Federation (ILS), SLQS was formed in 1930. Surf Life Saving Queensland is the official beach safety and rescue authority in the country and one of Australia’s biggest volunteer based community service organizations. During the past eighty four years SLQS has expanded its services with six branches and fifty nine Surf Life Saving Clubs throughout the state of Queensland.

Today, SLQS comprise of close to 36,000 dedicated volunteers who are involved in the diverse activities of the organization as part of community work. SLQS also have several large scale partners such as Oaks hotels and resorts to support them in various projects.

With the focus of saving lives SLQS is involved in lifesaving services, community education, surf sports, commercial training and fundraising. In order to safeguard the millions of beach-goers in Queensland’s coastlines SLQS offer their services through a network of volunteer lifesavers, professional lifeguards, beach management systems, operations support as well as various community awareness programmes.

All persons involved in lifesaving need to be trained in various rescue techniques and obtain a Bronze Medallion or Surf Rescue Certificate before starting patrol services. Through the six main branches of SLQS there is a list of services provided; these include Westpac Lifesaver rescue helicopter service, rescue craft, SurfCom, communication and surveillance, and mobile services.

SLQS’s main focus is providing aquatic safety to the public for which the organization implements surf safety and awareness programmes, educates school children, provide dangerous marine creature information to the public, community award training, offer water safety services and coastal management services. SLQS also runs the Surf Life Saving Academy Queensland which is a training school that delivers emergency care training through first aid and CPR courses.

Chandrishan Williams is a travel writer who writes under the pen name, Caleb Falcon. He specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers. Google+

Elephant Safari

How would it feel to sit on a teak wood chair placed on top of the world’s largest land mammal and ride along the river, rainforests and in to the city? That’s exactly what you will experience if you head to Bali, Indonesia. The experience of riding on an elephant back is truly unforgettable and it will certainly add colour and an unusual vibe to your next tropical vacation.

The Bali Elephant back safari is simply an extraordinary and exhilarating experience for the entire family. Elephant trekking has become an important part of a vacation in Bali. Kuta in southern Bali is a great place to get up close and personal with these amazing animals. Internationally acclaimed Elephant safari parks such as the Elephant safari park lodge and Elephant safari park Taro are located close to Bali, Kuta. Those who wish to make the most out of this adrenaline filled experience can choose to stay at a resort in Bali Kuta such as the conveniently located Sheraton Bali Kuta Resort. Special safari tour packages offer the services of picking you up from your Kuta resort and taking you to some of the world’s most fascinating safari parks.

An Elephant Safari in Bali Kuta is not merely riding on an elephant’s back. Travellers will also get the chance to witness elephants bathe and play. Elephant lovers can even hand feed them during special feeding sessions. Surrounded by dense forest, the Elephant Safari park in Taro is home to the largest herd of Sumatran Elephants. Visitors can enjoy an unforgettable ride through peaceful rainforests whilst viewing the exotic and natural scenery. An Elephant safari in Bali will also let you discover the village life in Indonesia and mingle with the local people. This one of a kind trekking experience will let you discover some charming local temples, busy local markets and sweeps of lush green paddy fields. Elephant Safari tours in Bali generally range from 15 minutes, 30 minutes, 40 minutes to 1 hour.

Thanuja Silva is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Auburn Silver. She has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.

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Camping adventures in Himalayas

Are you the adventurous type? Then a camping trip in the Himalayas is something you must experience. It is the best way to enjoy a truly memorable, adrenaline filled hike off the beaten path. It is also the best way to witness the grandeur of the Himalayas and explore the ancient cultures and the lifestyles of those residing in the surrounding areas.

Pack up your bags and head to Bhutan, a friendly South Asian nation nestled between two gigantic neighbours, China and India. Bhutan is a culturally and biologically diverse small Himalayan Kingdom. A tour to the Himalayan ranges in the south of Bhutan is the country’s most sought after tourist attraction. It is also an unmatched trek for nature lovers seeking to explore the unseen. Travelers can stay at a Bhutan Hotel located within easy reach to the world’s highest point, such as the intimate Uma by COMO, Paro. Such hotels are ideally positioned for unforgettable Himalayan camping adventures.

There are many exciting ways to reach the world’s highest peak. You could walk, ride a bicycle or even enjoy an exhilarating motorbike ride – the choice is yours. You can also choose from different treks flanked by ancient temples, lush forests, abundant wildlife and traditional culture. On your way to the world’s summit you can stop by to visit some villages, explore their lifestyles and even savour some traditional local food. There are many well planned Himalayan tour packages made available by hotels and tour agents in Bhutan. You can simply pick a Himalayan tour that suits your own budget, preference and pace. When you reach the highest point of the world and gaze at the spectacular surroundings you will discover that a trip to the Himalayas is undeniably the journey of a lifetime.

Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.

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Maldives wildlife

The Maldives, the magical island located in the heart of the Indian Ocean consists of around 1200 little islands. Each island is unique in its own way but the pristine white sandy beaches, the gently swaying palm trees, the turquoise waters and the warm hospitality is common to all.

The beauty and excitement of the Maldives is multiplied by its fascinating wildlife. Maldives Wildlife is not restricted to its marine species, but the flora and fauna of its islands are truly remarkable. This tropical Island is home to approximately 170 different types of colourful birds. Since the islands of the Maldives are relatively small in size and the majority of the land is occupied by resorts, reptiles are hard to find. The Maldives is dotted with amazing resorts that are built in harmony with Mother Nature. For instance, the Cocoa Island by COMO is a wonderful eco-friendly accommodation option for those who want to enjoy a holiday close to nature and wildlife.

There are only a handful of land mammals in the Maldives. The endemic flying fox and a unique type of shrew exist in the Maldive Islands. The Koel, white breasted water hen and the crow are three of the most common bird types in the Maldives. The stunning fairy tern can be spotted at the Addu atoll in the southern region of the country.

The Indian Ocean surrounding the Maldive Islands is blessed with abundant marine life. Close to 18 types of different whales and dolphins are found in the surrounding waters. The Bottlenose Dolphin, Spinner Dolphin, Risso’s Dolphin, Spotted Dolphin and Striped Dolphin are some of the Dolphin types found swimming close to the islands. The Dwarf sperm whale, Blue whale, Bryde’s whale and Beaked whale are also commonly visible. The 15meter long Whale Shark is one of the key wildlife attractions of the Maldives.

Thanuja Silva is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Auburn Silver. She has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world. Google+

Underwater Adventures in Maldives

As a country comprising mostly of ocean and just one percent land scattered over a thousand islets it is not surprising that adventure in the Maldives is to be had underwater. This is made exciting by the presence of coral reefs, rocky pinnacles rising from shallow lagoons and channels that offer varying landscapes and swim throughs teeming with marine life. As a prominent Maldives resort, Anantara Dhigu Resort & Spa Maldives offer access to underwater adventures that make some of the most memorable vacation experiences here.

The Maldives underwater landscape is made up of many highly rated dive sites where an abundance of coral, varied marine life at different depths and an interesting variety of geological features makes scuba diving an adventure. Channels that connect groups of islets with the ocean offer some of the greatest underwater adventures as they have the deepest dive spots and the most surprises. Varying in size and depth, the range of caves, caverns and overhangs festooned with marine creatures attract larger fish because of the nutrients that pass through these waterways in a steady stream. The channels are also where large marine creatures come to make use of the services of cleaning wrasses and shrimp giving the opportunity for underwater adventure seekers to get the thrill of their lives because of close quarter views of several large pelagic species. Other underwater features that are great adventures sites are the rocky pinnacles rising up from the bottom of lagoons. Because of their size some ‘thilas’ or pinnacles cannot be explored in a single day. They host large populations of crustaceans and schools of fish enough to engage the attentions of scuba divers as long as the air in their tanks last.

While underwater adventures are usually experienced among the coastal water off resorts, scuba diving off a range of well equipped water crafts is one of the best ways to experience life beneath the water in the Maldives as adventurers can visit several popular dive sites. While underwater adventures during the day is undoubtedly exciting looking at micro and mega fauna beneath the waves illuminated only by the beam of a hand held torch is probably even more exciting. Different underwater adventures are possible during the southwest and the northeast diving seasons when large concentrations of pelagic species are to be found in different places.

Intrigued by history, art and food, Shazzana Hamid is a writer who is passionate about the extraordinary. Disguised as Lavinia Woolf she writes of the exhilarating and enchanting.

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Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden

Nature is an important aspect to relish in while you’re spending a vacation in China. The Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden takes a significant place that would definitely make a strong impact in your little knowledge about Mother Nature. Thus, Anantara Xishuangbanna Resort & Spa is a remarkable accommodation option if you’re considering of engaging in this valuable educational experience. This setting allows you to enjoy the raw beauty of the lush greens in the comfort of a luxury hotel, Yunnan.

To begin with, Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden is the largest manmade Botanical Garden and the only stretch of tropical rain forest lying in the land of china. It was founded in 1959 and it contains more than 13,000 species of tropical plants that are preserved in 35 living collections. This marvellous location is also a plant research station of the Chine Academy of Sciences, which is engaged in bio diversity conservation, resource plant development and forest eco-system ecology.

On that note, visit this world renowned tropical botanical gardens to enhance your knowledge primarily about unique botanical researches, new technical developments and plant seed resource preservation. You will be privileged to walk around nearly 20 mini gardens. The Garden of Famous Trees planted by celebrities, the National Tree and Flower Garden, the Garden of National Plants, the Garden of Palms and the Garden of Shady Plants are to name few famous mini gardens. In particular, there are nearly 5000 tropical plants growing successfully.

Naturally, walking around the gardens would be a mesmerizing tour of sightseeing. Scenes like giant trees with extremely old trunks, vines that have invaded trees, flowers in vibrant hues and long leafy grass are some beautiful sights that would compliment your eyes. It is assured that this would be an amazing opportunity to relax and feel happy in appreciation of Mother Nature. Moreover, if you’re lucky, you would also be able to witness entertaining performances from tour guides on celebration events.

Lastly, do not forget to taste some fresh fruits and herbs to complete your experience at this wonderful setting.

Nigel Walters is a travel writer, who writes under the pen name, Fritzjames Stephen. His content is based on the myriad of experiences and indulgences that the world has to offer travellers across all walks of life. Google+